Jesus, both unique and relatable, embodies divine perfection in human form. Despite being unrecognized by many, he offers salvation to all who believe. His life, while holy, also resonates with human experiences, teaching us how to navigate life's challenges.

The murder of a gay couple by a police constable led to the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras board asking the NSW police not to march in the parade. Despite not being a hate crime, it raises concerns about discrimination and domestic violence within the police force. This highlights challenges in addressing victimhood and inclusivity in society.

The murder of a gay couple by a police constable led to the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras board requesting the NSW police not to march in the parade. Despite historic discrimination, the police have made efforts to be inclusive. Excluding them from the parade contradicts the community's values of inclusivity and forgiveness.

Australia's social cohesion, pride, and hope are at their lowest, reflecting a decline in shared values, economic equality, and trust in government. Rising inequality, disparities in education and healthcare, divisive politics, and a loss of shared narrative contribute to this decline. The shift away from traditional values and the embrace of individualism have left many feeling disconnected and exposed.

Reflect on Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People" and the concept of gossip, particularly contemptuous gossip. While traditional gossip forms triangles and can be risky, contemptuous gossip bonds individuals against a third party without personal risk. However, it lacks constructive value and contrasts with the biblical command to love one another and show respect to leaders, emphasizing the importance of building up rather than tearing down.

I'm exploring Martin Seligman's positive psychology. He emphasizes voluntary activities as key to sustained happiness. According to his formula, 40% of happiness is determined by actions like gratitude, forgiveness, and serving others. These align with Christian values and contribute to a fulfilling life.

The opening of the Ram Temple in India on the site of a historic mosque has implications for secularism. Secularism is declining globally and that atheism is also waning. The rise of religious nationalism is seen as a response to the decline of secularism. Christians should advocate for a secularism based on Christian values of justice, equality, compassion, and freedom for all without seeking a return to Christendom or privileging Christian values in legislation.

Ayaan, born in Somalia, underwent a transformation from Islam to denouncing her faith, embracing Western ideals. A politician, activist, and former atheist, she recently announced her conversion to Christianity, emphasizing its values in safeguarding human life, freedom, and dignity.

Christmas, amidst global conflicts, may feel untimely. While acknowledging the struggles and recognizing the universality of war and celebration, we reflect on the dualities within the human heart. Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us of the coexistence of war and peace, weeping and laughing, mourning and dancing. Christmas embodies God's love, prompting contemplation amid the world's challenges.

In a world of contrasting visions, the Church faces divisions, exemplified by Pope Francis and Cardinal Burke. Christian debates on progressive inclusivity versus secular nationalism echo these tensions. Amid this complexity, the call for Jesus' followers is clear: stay faithful to His teachings, embracing discipleship in all seasons.

The news of war triggers a mix of emotions—horror, compassion, and at times, a numbing fatigue. These reactions reflect a deep belief in the sanctity of human life, shaped by the Christian perspective valuing every individual, which has not always been present throughout history.

The three parables of the lost sheep, coin, and son illustrate different aspects of being lost and found. They highlight how we sometimes seek God and at other times are found by Him, urging us to be spiritually curious in both seeking and recognising God's presence.

Modern love is internal, ancient love is divine. Depression, too, has shifted from external to internal. Both perspectives hold truths.

Many fall into the trap of associating possessions and achievements with happiness. We often think more is the path to contentment. This mindset influences not only personal life but also seeps into church dynamics. We desire for more resources, volunteers, or growth to be a better church. But, we must remember Jesus' warning to guard against the allure of possessions.

Church health and illness are not opposites, but are complementary. Churches experiencing "mini-illnesses" can create resilience and resources to combat future challenges. This observation underscores the idea that spiritual growth may involve facing difficulties and that God can use them to strengthen the church. It's a reminder of the Christian journey, encompassing both blessings and trials.

The concept of the "buffered self" signifies a shift in how we engage with church and pastors. Historically, we were open to challenge and guidance from pastors, but now we isolate ourselves like fortresses, curating our own souls. This change has flaws: vulnerability to evil, inadequate self-awareness, and isolation from community. The buffered self, appealing on the surface, can become a self-imposed lonely prison.

Augustine's self-reflective autobiography shows an early attraction to sin for its thrill. Today, we often view sin as external or psychologically driven. Augustine's solution: replace love of sin with love of God.